RCPS Community Partner Cafe

Revisiting Safety First: The RCPS Approach to Weather-Related Decisions

In light of the winter weather conditions we're navigating, we wanted to reshare this episode from 2024 with Director of Transportation Chris Sours.
 
What happens when weather events cause potential school disruptions? In today’s episode of RCPS Community Partner Cafe, Chris Sours talks with host Katie LaPira to share what goes into making weather-related decisions for RCPS. Chris gives listeners a glimpse behind the scenes into what happens when weather events impact Rockingham County. 
 
Listen in to hear what makes RCPS unique and how decisions about delays and closures are made when weather impacts travel. As Chris shares, the safety of RCPS students and employees is the focus of every decision made. Learn about the process RCPS uses when determining whether a delay or closure is needed because of weather-related events. 

Growing Together: Mentorship in RCPS

What does it really look like to support new teachers in their first year? In this episode, host Katie LaPira sits down with supervisor Stephanie Failes and a panel of RCPS mentor teachers to walk us through the New Teacher Mentor Program, including who it serves, why it matters, and how it helps year zero teachers feel confident and connected from day one. 
 
You’ll hear how teacher mentors offer non-evaluative, just-in-time support: classroom set-up tips, tech tools, lesson planning, co-teaching, and practical guidance for milestones like grades and conferences.
 
RCPS families and community partners will also hear how this program builds relationships that last through on-campus visits, collaboration with mentor teachers/ ITRTs, and community meet-ups (yes, even ice cream socials!). 
 
If you’re curious about how RCPS invests in great teaching, and why so many educators choose to build their careers here, this conversation shows the care behind the classroom. Learn more at RCPS.net.

Building Kindness and Safety: Bullying Prevention in Our Schools

October is Bullying Prevention Month, and RCPS is joining schools across the nation to shine a light on this important issue. In this episode, Katie welcomes Dr. Emily Holloway to share what families and community members need to know about recognizing, reporting, and preventing bullying.
 
Together, Katie and Emily discuss the difference between bullying and everyday conflict, the warning signs adults should look for, and how bystanders can become upstanders who make a positive impact. 
 
Tune in to hear how our schools, families, and community can work hand in hand to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and valued.
 
For more information visit: https://www.rcps.net/page/support-services 

Fall Sports Kickoff: VHSL Updates for Students and Parents

Have a student gearing up for fall sports or thinking about joining a team or activity? Your host Katie LaPira welcomes back VHSL Supervisor Eric Baylor to explain what families need to know right now. Eric highlights the upcoming ninth grade live-in-zone eligibility rule (effective July 1, 2026), the new 14-month physical timeline, the heat index safety policy, and the enforcement of long-standing limits on out-of-zone eighth graders playing JV.
 
Plus, we get a look at what’s happening across RCPS this fall, from packed football stands to early-running golf, spirited theater productions, eSports, and more. Planning to attend? Remember the clear bag policy at outdoor events, follow your school’s posted guidelines, and come on out. If your student is on the fence about participating, give it a shot this season.

Beyond the Game: How VHSL Activities Support Student Growth

How do extracurriculars shape student success, and what’s ahead for RCPS activities?
 
In this episode, host Katie LaPira sits down with Eric Baylor, RCPS’s new Supervisor of VHSL Activities, to reflect on a standout year for student athletics and co-curricular activities. 
 
From multiple state championships to the growing popularity of esports, Eric shares highlights from across the division, his perspective as a former coach and principal, and the life lessons students gain from being part of a team, whether on the field, on the stage, or behind a screen.
 
This conversation is a great listen for parents, caregivers, and community members who want to understand how activities build community, strengthen school spirit, and help students thrive beyond the classroom. Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s coming this fall!

The Future of School Leadership in RCPS

What does it take to lead a school today—and how is that changing? In this episode, Dr. Amy Painter, Chief Human Resources Officer for Rockingham County Public Schools, joins us to talk about what makes an effective school leader in today’s climate. Drawing from her experience as both a principal and an HR leader, Dr. Painter shares how RCPS approaches hiring and supporting principals during times of transition, and what qualities are most essential in school leadership today.
 
If you’re a parent or community member curious about what’s happening behind the scenes in our schools, this episode offers a valuable look into how RCPS supports strong, steady leadership for students and staff.

School Finances 101: What Most People Don’t Know About School Budgets

How exactly are public schools funded—and where does all the money actually go? In this episode, Katie is joined by Justin Moyers, Chief Financial Officer for Rockingham County Public Schools, to break down the myths and realities of school budgeting. They discuss where funding comes from (and where it doesn’t), what makes up the largest expenses, and how local, state, and federal sources all play a role in what RCPS is able to offer students.
 
Justin explains how RCPS balances its budget year after year, and why many people are surprised by the hidden costs of running a school district. Katie and Justin also talk about teacher salaries, what benefits really cost, and why some extracurricular programs rely heavily on fundraising. If you’ve ever wondered how budget decisions get made—or how to advocate for the programs that matter most to your family—this episode offers a clear and practical window into the process.
 
To learn more, check out https://www.rcps.net/page/finance-office.

Rockingham Learns for Life: A New Era of Professional Growth

Professional development is an essential part of education, but how do we ensure it’s meaningful, relevant, and engaging for teachers? In this episode, host Katie LaPira sits down with Donna Abernathy, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation and Learning, to discuss how Rockingham County Public Schools is reimagining professional development—designed by educators, for educators.
Donna shares how RCPS is prioritizing teacher choice, hands-on learning, and peer-led sessions through the upcoming Rockingham Learns for Life conference. Learn how this new approach is shaping professional growth across the district, why teacher-led PD is a game-changer, and how you can get involved.
We are now accepting proposals for the Rockingham Learns for Life 2025 Conference, held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at East Rockingham High School & River Bend Elementary. Sessions will be one hour and should provide interactive, actionable strategies for educators.
Proposals should align with the conference goals: Academic Excellence, Serving Diverse Learners, and Mental & Behavioral Wellbeing, reflecting the RCPS Comprehensive Plan (2024-2029).
Submit your proposal here: Proposal Form. Conference planners will review applications throughout the spring.
Tune in to learn how this new initiative is shaping the future of professional growth in RCPS.

Live, Local, and Student-Led: Behind the Scenes of The Gobbler News Network

How can a student-run news network impact an entire school community? In this episode of RCPS Community Partner Cafe, we go behind the scenes of Broadway High School’s Gobbler News Network (GNN) with Broadway seniors Elijah and Leslie. From scriptwriting to live broadcasts, they share with host Katie LaPira about how this student-run program keeps their peers informed and engaged.
 
Elijah and Leslie discuss what makes GNN different from traditional school announcements. They share the skills they’ve gained, and how the program has influenced their career aspirations. Plus, hear about their most memorable broadcasts—including a campaign to bring back the beloved baked potato bar!
 
Tune in to learn how GNN is giving students a voice, building technical skills, and fostering a deeper connection with their school community.
 
Follow GNN to see their work!
 
Check them out on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. 
 
Check out the “Return of Strut” video mentioned in the episode.

Fueling Learning: Inside the RCPS School Nutrition Program

What does it take to feed over 11,000 students every day? In this episode, Katie LaPira sits down with Jennifer Williams, Director of Food and Nutrition Services, to discuss the behind-the-scenes work that keeps Rockingham County students well-fed. Jennifer shares how her team of over 100 staff prepares meals across 23 schools, incorporates locally-sourced ingredients, and meets federal nutrition guidelines—all while accommodating dietary needs.
Jennifer also highlights the benefits of connecting students to local farms, explains how the free and reduced lunch program works, and provides tips for how parents and community members can support school nutrition efforts. 
Listen in to learn more about the amazing system that keeps our 11,600 RCPS students fed. This episode is packed with insights into the care and strategy that go into serving nutritious meals every day.